What does amplitude describe in relation to sound?

Amplitude in relation to sound refers to the maximum displacement of particles in a medium (like air) from their rest position as sound waves travel through it. This measurement directly correlates to the intensity or loudness of a sound. Higher amplitude means that the sound waves have more energy, resulting in a louder sound that we perceive. Conversely, lower amplitude corresponds to softer sounds.

Understanding amplitude is crucial since it plays a significant role in how we experience sound in the world around us, differentiating between quiet and loud sounds based on how far the sound waves displace the medium. Other aspects of sound, such as duration, frequency, and quality, relate to different characteristics, but amplitude specifically defines the intensity of sound.